Department of Health says it's not too late to get flu vaccine

The flu is widespread in nearly every state, and officials say the number of sick people has reached epidemic level.

But, there's early evidence the flu could be waning in a few areas of the country. Data hints the flu season may have peaked in the Southeast.

A new study of more than 1,000 patients finds the flu shot is 62 percent effective. That means you're 62 percent less likely to need to see a doctor if you do get sick. That's pretty normal for influenza vaccines.

Doctors say the vaccine is the best tool available to protect patients from the worst outcomes. Despite the moderate effectiveness, the shot is considered to be a good match for 90 percent of the circulating flu bugs.